BE AM Series Application guide
BE-AMxx
Hedge Cutter
Operations & Parts Manual
• BE-AM60
• BE-AM80
• BE-AM100
For Models:
Purchase Date
Dealer
Model No. Serial No.
READ THE BOOK FIRST.
It might save hours and dollars later!
When ordering spare parts always quote:
Factory re-built service exchange units of the major hydraulic components are available from your Dealer.
ATTENTION!
The equivalent daily personal noise exposure from this machine, measured at the operator’s ear, is within the
range of 78-85 DB. These figures apply to a normal distribution of use where the noise fluctuates between
zero and maximum. The figures assume that the machine is fitted to a tractor with a quiet cab with the windows
closed in a generally open environment. We recommend that the windows are kept closed. With the cab rear
window open the equivalent daily personal noise exposure will increase to a figure within the range of 82-88DB.
At equivalent daily noise exposure levels of between 85 and 90 DB, ear protection is recommended,
it should be used if any window is left open.
Record the serial number of your machine on this page and always quote this number when ordering spares.
Whenever information concerning the machine is requested remember to also state the type of tractor
to which it is fitted.
NOISE
MACHINE
SERIAL
NUMBER
MODEL
DETAILS
INSTALLATION
DATE
DEALERS
NAME
DEALERS
TELEPHONE
NUMBER
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• The Machine Type
• The Machine Serial Number
• The Part Number
Read this manual bore fitting or operating the machine. Whenever any doubt exists contact your local dealer.
Use only BE Genuine spare parts on BE equipment and machines.
The following definitions apply throughout this manual:
WARNING!
An operating procedure, technique, etc., which can result in personal injury or
loss of life if not observed carefully.
CAUTION!
An operating procedure, technique, etc., which can result in the damage of either machine or equipment
if not observed carefully.
Note:
An operating procedure, technique, Etc., which is considered essential to emphasize.
Left and Right Hand:
This term is applicable to the machine when fitted to the tractor and viewed from the rear.
This also applies to tractor references.
GENERAL INFORMATION
DEFINITIONS
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SAFETY INFORMATION
This machine has the potential to be extremely dangerous, in the wrong hands it can kill or maim.
It is therefore imperative that the owner, and the operator of this machine, read the following section to ensure
that they are both fully aware of the dangers that do, or may exist, and their responsibilities surrounding its use.
The operator of this machine is responsible not only for their own safety nut equally for the safety of others who
may come into the close proximity of the machine, as the owner you are responsible for both.
POTENTIAL SIGNIFICANT DANGERS ASSOCIATED WITH THE USE OF THIS MACHINE:
• Being hit by debris thrown by rotating components.
• Being hit by machine parts ejected through damage during use.
• Being caught on a rotating power take-o (PTO) shaft.
• Being caught in other moving parts i.e.: belts, pulleys and cutting heads.
• Electrocution from Overhead Power Lines (by contact with or “flash-over” from)
• Becoming trapped between tractor and machine when hitching or unhitching.
• Tractor overbalancing when machine arm is extended.
• Injection of high pressure oil from hydraulic hoses or couplings.
• Machine overbalancing when freestanding (out of use).
• Road trac accidents due to collision or debris on the road.
BEFORE USING THIS MACHINE YOU MUST:
• Ensure you read all sections of the operator handbook
• Ensure the operator is, or has been, properly trained to use the machine.
• Ensure the operator has been issued with and reads the operator handbook.
• Ensure the operator understands and follow the instructions in operator handbook.
• Ensure the tractor front, rear and side(s) are fitted with metal mesh or polycarbonate guards of suitable size
and strength to protect the operator against thrown debris or parts.
• Ensure tractors guards are fitted correctly, are undamaged and kept properly maintained.
• Ensure that all machine guards are in position, are undamaged and are kept maintained in accordance with
the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Ensure flails and their fixings are of a type recommended by the manufacturer, are securely attached and
that none are missing or damaged.
• Ensure hydraulic pipes are carefully and correctly routed to avoid damage by chang, stretching or pinching
and that they are held in place with the correct fittings.
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for attachment and removal of the machine from the tractor.
• Check that the machine fittings and couplings are in good condition.
• Ensure the tractor meets the minimum weight recommendations of the machine manufacturer and the ballast
is used as necessary.
• Always inspect the work area thoroughly before starting to note obstacles and remove wire, bottles, cans
and other debris.
• Use clear suitably sized warning signs to alert others to the nature of the machine working within that area.
Signs should be placed at both ends of the work site. (It is recommended that signs used are of a size and
type specified by the Department of Transport and positioned in accordance with their and the Local
Highways Authority guidelines).
• Ensure the operator is protected from noise. Ear defenders should be worn and tractor cab doors and windows
must be kept closed. Machine controls should be routed through proprietary openings in the cab to enable all
windows to be shut fully.
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BEFORE USING THIS MACHINE YOU MUST: (CONT.)
• Always work at a safe speed taking account of the conditions i.e.: terrain, highway proximity and obstacles
around and above the machine.
• Extra special attention should be applied to Overhead Power Lines. Some of our machines are capable or
reach in excess of 8 meters (26 feet) this means they have the potential to well exceed, by possibly
3 meters (9’ 9”), the lowest legs minimum height of 5.2 meters from the ground for 11,000 and 33,000 volt
power lines. It cannot be stressed enough the dangers that surround this capability, it is therefore vital that
the operator is fully aware of the maximum height and reach of the machine, and that they are fully conversant
with all aspects regarding the safe minimum distances that apply when working with machines in close
proximity to Power Lines. (Further information on this subject can be obtained from the Health & Safety
Executive or your Local Power Company).
• Always disengage the machine, kill the tractor engine, remove and pocket the ignition key before dismounting
for any reason.
• Always clear up all debris left at work area, it may cause hazards to others.
• Always ensure when you remove your machine from the tractor that it is left in a safe and stable position
using the stands and props provided and secured if necessary.
SAFETY INFORMATION (CONT.)
WHEN NOT TO USE THIS MACHINE:
• Never attempt to use this machine if you have not been trained to do so.
• Never use a machine until you have read and understood the operator handbook, are familiar with,
and practiced the controls.
• Never use a machine that is poorly maintained.
• Never use a machine if guards are missing or damaged.
• Never use a machine on which the hydraulic system shows signs of wear or damage.
• Never fit, or use, a machine on a tractor that does not meet the manufacturer’s minimum specification level.
• Never use a machine fitted to a tractor that does not have suitable front, rear and side(s) cab guarding made
of metal mesh or polycarbonate.
• Never us the machine if the tractor can guarding is damaged, deteriorating or badly fitted.
• Never turn a machine cutting head to an angle that cause debris to be ejected towards the cab.
• Never start or continue to work a machine if people are nearby or approaching.
Stop and wait until they are at a safe distance before continuing.
WARNING: Some Cutting Heads may continue to “freewheel” for up to 40 seconds after being stopped.
• Never attempt to use a machine on materials in excess of it capability.
• Never use a machine to perform a task it has not been designed to do.
• Never operate the tractor or machine controls from any position other than from the driving seat, especially
whilst hitching or unhitching the machine.
• Never carry out maintenance of a machine or tractor whilst the engine is running. The engine should be
switched o, the key removed and pocketed.
• Never leave a machine unattended in a raised position - it should be lowered to the ground in a safe position
on a level firm site.
• Never leave a tractor with the key in or the engine running.
• Never carry out maintenance on any part or component of a machine that is raised, unless that part or
component has been properly substantially braced or supported.
• Never attempt to detect a hydraulic leak with your hand - use a piece of cardboard.
• Never allow children near to, or play on, a tractor or machine under any circumstances.
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The machine will be delivered in a partially dismantled condition, secured with transport strap and banding.
• Chose a firm level site.
• Remove the transport strap,
banding straps and loose items.
• Check hydraulic fluid is at recommended level.
• Raise the machine using overhead lifting
equipment with a minimum capacity of 1500kg SWL.
LEAVE IN POSITION AT THIS STAGE.
• Lower the legs and pin in position selecting the holes
that position the machines gearbox stub shaft
approx. 75mm below the tractors PTO shaft
Note: Leg pin position used.
• Unbolt stabilizer from machine and remove stabilizer
nose quadrant pin.
Locate axle mounting arms onto the mainframe and secure in position using the correct nuts and bolts supplied,
tighten nuts when correct hole location has been selected
(See following page for details on mounting hole selection).
INITIAL ATTACHMENT TO TRACTOR
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AXLE BRACKET/CATCH ASSEMBLY - FITTING BY DEALER
Bolt axle plates to the tractor axle at either 1.0 M or 1.1 M apart - this may necessitate the removal of the
tractor's check chains and/or assister ram brackets, if this is the case, the axle plate will include replacement
brackets for these functions. The axle brackets supplied will be accompanied by a fitting sheet with instruction
for their attachment to your tractor, follow the instructions exactly as they are specific to your particular make
and model of tractor. Replace assister ram(s) if fitted.
Hook the catch assemblies onto the rear
of the axle plates, push firmly against the
plate and vigorously pivot the catch in a
forward and up direction until the spring
loaded hook ‘snaps’ into position.
Pass the release cords up into the cab.
Note:
On some tractors fitted with auxiliary fuel tanks,
there is insucient space for the spring catches
to be fitted, in these instances special axle brackets
and catches with a ‘pin on’ facility are available on request.
Ensure catch-locking pin ‘A’ is removed.
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STANDARD TYPE BRACKETS
With the frame in the vertical position, measure dimensions ‘A’ and ‘B’, subtract ‘B’ from ‘A’ to obtain
measurement ‘X’. Measure dimension ‘C’.
Select mounting holes which position the mounting bars in the end of the latch arms so that dimension ‘D’
equals dimension ‘C’ minus measurement ‘X’ and also when the draft link is horizontal and the rocking
draft pin is in the upright position dimensions ‘E’ and ‘F’ are equal.
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ALTERNATIVE TYPE BRACKETS
With the frame in the vertical position, measure dimensions ‘A’ and ‘B’, subtract ‘B’ from ‘A’ to obtain
measurement ‘X’. Measure dimension ‘C’. Select mounting holes which position the mounting bars in the end
of the latch arms so that dimensions ‘D’ equals dimension ‘C’ minus measurement ‘X’ and also when the draft
link is horizontal and the rocking draft pin is in the upright position dimensions ‘E’ and ‘F’ are equal.
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TRACTOR ATTACHMENT - BY CUSTOMER OR DEALER
Reverse tractor squarely into position adjacent to the
machine and connect the draft links to the machine.
Maneuver tractor until both draft pin rockers are vertical.
Raise the machine on the tractors linkage sucient only
for the latch bar to fully engage in the axle catch.
WARNING!
The quadrant lever or machine controls must only be
operated from the tractor seat. Ensure no one is standing
close to or within the linkage arms or bars.
Note:
Be aware - as lift occurs the machinery may tilt slightly.
Insert catch lock pins - refer to
diagram below for specific type.
Standard Type Bracket Alternative Type Bracket
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TRACTOR ATTACHMENT - BY CUSTOMER OR DEALER
Raise the machine on tractors linkage until the
frame is vertical.
Fit top link.
Measure PTO shaft and cut to dimension shown
(distance ‘A’ minus 75mm) - see diagram opposite
and refer to maintenance section for further details.
Note:
For subsequent use on a dierent tractor measure
again - there must be a minimum of 6” (150mm) of
shaft overlap.
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TRACTOR ATTACHMENT - BY CUSTOMER OR DEALER
Attach the torque chains to a convenient location
to prevent rotation of the shaft guards.
Fit machine controls into the cab - refer to the
specific page on this subject for further details.
FIRST FITTING ONLY - for Dealer Reference
Request assistance. Operate ‘Lift up’ on machine controls sucient
only for the dipper arm to clear the ground. Pivot out the dipper
until the tension link can be reconnected.
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TRACTOR ATTACHMENT - BY CUSTOMER OR DEALER (CONT.)
Raise the stand legs into the work position and secure
with their pins - see diagram opposite.
Tighten check chains and/or stabilizer bars.
The machine should now be carefully operated
throughout its full range of movements to check hoses are
not being strained, pinched, chafed or kinked and that all
movements are functioning correctly.
The machine can now be folded into the transport position
ready to proceed to the work site - Refer to this section on
Transport Position for details on this subject.
REMOVAL FROM TRACTOR
Select a firm safe site to remove the machine.
Locate parking legs into their housings.
Note:
The correct, and most stable, position for removing the
machine from the tractor is with the arm positioned to
the rear of the machine.
Position the flail head on the ground directly to the
rear of the machine at approximately half reach.
Disengage PTO.
Remove latch security pins.
Take machine weight on draft links sucient only to
allow the top link to be disconnected.
Open axle catches using the release cord and lower
the machine.
Disconnect draft links and remove the PTO shaft.
Remove control units from the tractor cab and stow
clear of the ground in a location where they are protected
from the weather or risk of accidental damage.
Drive tractor away from machine.
Replace check chains / stabilizer bars - the axle plates
can remain permanently in position.
STORAGE
If the machine is to be left standing for extended periods of time, lightly coat the exposed portions of the ram
rods with grease. Subsequently this grease should be wiped o before the rams are next moved.
If the machine is to be stored outside tie a piece of tarpaulin or canvas over the control assembly.
Do not use a plastic bag as this can lead to corrosion in the unit.
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TRACTOR ATTACHMENT - LINKAGE MOUNTED MACHINES
With the machine positioned on a firm level site and
securely supported, maneuver the tractor squarely
up to the machine with the tractor’s draft links set
to a height level with the machines lower link brackets.
(See Fig.1)
Connect the tractor’s draft links to the machine’s lower
link brackets, retain in position with the linkage and lynch
pins supplied. Ensure that the same ‘hole position’ is
selected on each side of the machine.
Note:
The hole on the lower link bracket should be the rear most
that permits the machine to be mounted without fouling
the tractor.
LIFTING EQUIPMENT MAY NOW BE REMOVED.
Fit and secure stabilizer nose into the tractors top link
selecting the highest position available
avoiding any load sensing properties.
(See Fig 2.)
Note:
The bolt on nose of the stabilizer is reversible in order
to accommodate variations of tractor linkage designs.
Remove the ‘R’ clip and quadrant pin from the stabilizer
and swing it rearwards to locate with one of the holes on
the mainframe - Select the hole that is furthest away from
the tractor and secure loosely with the bolt provided.
DO NOT TIGHTEN AT THIS STAGE and DO NOT REPLACE
QUADRANT PIN AT THIS STAGE. (See Fig 3.)
Fig. 1
Fig. 2
Fig. 3
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TRACTOR ATTACHMENT - LINKAGE MOUNTED MACHINES (CONT.)
Fit the machines top link. (See Fig. 4)
Raise the machine on the tractors linkage to a
position where the tractor PTO and the machines
gearbox stub shaft are approximately in line with
each other.
Note:
As lift occurs be aware the machinery may tilt slightly.
WARNING!
The quadrant lever or machine controls must be
operated from the tractor seat. Ensure no one is
standing on or between the bars linkage arms or bars.
Replace the stabilizer quadrant pin and secure
with the ‘R’ clip. (See Fig. 5)
Note:
The quadrant pin must be fitted in the lowest hole on
the stabilizer in order that it acts as a ‘bottom stop’.
This will prevent the machine from dropping when
stopped and permit the tractor’s inbuilt transport
protection system to function correctly during
operation and transportation.
Ensure the tractor’s linkage is in ‘position control’
and the linkage raised suciently to hold cutter at
the correct
height and remove the load from the quadrant pin.
Never fit the quadrant pin in a location hole that locks
the stabilizer as this can cause damage to the machine
and/or tractor.
Fig. 4
Fig. 5
Fig. 6
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TRACTOR ATTACHMENT - LINKAGE MOUNTED MACHINES (CONT.)
Filly tighten the stabilizer lower bolts. (See Fig. 7)
Measure the PTO shaft and cut to the dimensions shown.
The finished length of the PTO shaft should be 75mm (3”)
less than the measured distance ‘A’ between tractor shaft
and gearbox stub shaft to enable fitting. (See Fig. 8)
Note:
For subsequent use with dierent tractors measure again,
there must be a minimum shaft overlap of 150mm (6”).
Fit PTO in position and attach the torque chains to a
convenient location to prevent the shaft guards from
rotating. (See Fig. 9)
Fig. 7
Fig. 8
Fig. 9
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TRACTOR ATTACHMENT - LINKAGE MOUNTED MACHINES (CONT.)
On semi independent machines only connect up the supply and return hoses.
Supply - from tractors auxiliary service.
Return - to tractors transmission casing (refer to Tractors Handbook).
Fit the machine control unit into the tractor cab.
(See Fig. 10)
Note:
On semi independent machines only select tractors external services.
Fig. 10
Fig. 11
• Ensure the Lift Ram tap and Slew Ram taps are open.
• Request assistance.
• Operate ‘lift up’ on machine controls sucient only for end of the dipper arm to clear the ground.
• Pivot out the dipper arm until the tension link can be connected.
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Operate the controls to ‘slew’ the arms toward the rear only until the frame is horizontal.
Carefully operate the machine
through its full range of movements whilst checking that hoses are not strained, pinched, chaed or kinked,
and that all machine movements are functioning correctly.
On initial installation, the machine is now ready for attachment of the flail head.
Fold the machine into the transport position. The machine is now ready to proceed to the work site.
FLAIL HEAD ATTACHMENT:
Operate machine controls to maneuver into position
to enable attachment of the flail head. The bottom of
the hose junction bracket must be parallel with the ground.
(Refer to ‘Pre-Operational Checks’ for correct bolt torque settings.
TRACTOR ATTACHMENT - LINKAGE MOUNTED MACHINES (CONT.)
Connect up flail hoses as indicated below.
With the arms at half reach and the flail head clear of the ground carry out final adjustment of the lift arm
leveling box to bring the main frame horizontal.
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• Select a firm level site for parking the machine.
• Replace parking legs in their sockets and secure in their lowest position.
• Raise the machine on the tractor linkage until the weight is taken o the stabilizer.
• Remove the lower stabilizer pins.
• Unscrew the lift ram tap.
• Lower the machine to the ground.
• Extend the arms and place the flail head on the ground at half reach.
• Disengage tractor PTO and remove
• Disconnect stabilizer bars or loosen check chains as applicable
• Unbolt the control unit from the mounting pillar, remove from tractor can and stow the levers or
switch box clear of the ground.
• Disconnect the stabilizer from the tractors top hitch position. Allow the stabilizer to slide along
the rail until it contacts the eccentric stops.
• Remove draft link pins and drive tractor away from machine.
DANGER!
READ CAREFULLY BEFORE COMMENCING TO
REMOVE THE MACHINE FROM THE TRACTOR.
THE ORDER OF THE FOLLOWING STEPS MUST BE FOLLOWED EXACTLY
DISCONNECTING THE TOP LINK MUST BE THE LAST OPERATION PRIOR TO
DRIVING THE TRACTOR AWAY FROM THE MACHINE.
WARNING!
Do not operate quadrant lever or machine controls through the rear cab window whilst
standing on or amongst linkage components. Always seek assistance.
REMOVAL FROM TRACTOR
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STORAGE
If machine is to be left standing for an extended period of time, lightly coat the exposed portions of the ram
rods with grease. Subsequently this grease should be wiped o before the rams are next moved.
If the machine has to be stored outside tie a piece of tarpaulin or canvas over the control assembly,
do not use a plastic fertilizer bag which could lead to rapid corrosion.
SUBSEQUENT ATTACHMENT TO IDENTICAL TRACTOR
Refer to and follow steps on ‘Initial Attachment To Tractor’
Connect stabilizer into tractors top hitch position used previously.
Raise the machine on the tractor linkage until the Stabilizer contacts the eccentric stops.
Fit stabilizer lower pins.
Mount controls in the tractor cab.
Fit PTO Shaft and attach torque chain to a convenient pint to prevent the shaft guard rotating.
Place arms in work position at half reach and adjust lift arm leveling box to bring frame horizontal.
Tighten Check Chains if fitted.
Stow parking legs.
Fold machine into transport position.
Proceed to the work site.
SUBSEQUENT ATTACHMENT TO DIFFERENT TRACTOR
Remove Stabilizer
and Top Link from machine and separate.
Refer to and follow steps on ‘Initial Attachment To Tractor’
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This manual suits for next models
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